I think the discussion of 'To post or not to post' should really be moved into its own thread. It's a very interesting discussion, with different opinions as what constitutes public domain and off the record, but it isn't really relevant to Chester Zoo news.
Just to offer my two cents in the debate. I think if keepers/staff know you are interested in the zoo/species they may give you little pieces of extra information that isn't strictly public domain. Unfortunately, these keepers are then stung when the other party straight away posts the information on here. I, personally, don't count one-on-one discussions with staff as public domain. If I was told something and thought it worth posting, it is only courteous to ask the staff member who has told you if it is ok to share the information online. To me, public domain only covers information that is provided officially [i.e. guidebooks, presenter talks, website, members' magazines etc] - i.e. information that has been given with an intention to reach a wide audience. Otherwise, I would ask permission to post.
As to the Zoochat/Zoo Professional relationship, I do think there is scope for mutual respect between both parties. Being on here shouldn't alienate us from zoo professionals, but likewise if the zoos recognise our enthusiasm and interest and provide us with pieces of information, it is only right we don't throw that respect back in their faces. This forum is for people interested in zoology, zoo history, conservation etc. It is a platform for people with this enthusiasm to share it with others who hold the same interests and to represent zoo enthusiasts to the zoo professionals that look on here. Unfortunately, at the moment, I don't believe this site is helping the reputation of the zoo enthusiast.